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New York
7

New York State Parks

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USA Parks
New York
Hudson Valley Region
Beebe Hill State Forest
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BEEBE HILL STATE FOREST
BEEBE HILL STATE FOREST
Beebe Hill State Forest, located in the picturesque landscapes of New York, is an enchanting haven for nature enthusiasts and adventurers. This magnificent forest stretches across acres of stunning woodlands, offering a diversity of experiences for visitors. From winding trails that lead explorers through lush greenery and serene meadows to the gentle babbling of pristine streams, Beebe Hill State Forest effortlessly captures the essence of tranquility. Towering trees create a towering canopy above, providing shade and a habitat for a variety of wildlife. With its breathtaking vistas, hidden lakes, and captivating flora and fauna, this forest promises an unforgettable escape into the beauty of nature.
History of the Area
Before European settlers arrived, the land was inhabited by Native American tribes, such as the Mohicans. They used the forest for hunting, gathering, and spiritual ceremonies. In the 17th century, Dutch settlers began to establish farms and homes in the area, contributing to the development of the region.

In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, the land that now comprises Beebe Hill State Forest was owned by the Beebe family. They were prominent landowners in the area, and the hill in the state forest is named after them. The Beebe family utilized the land for agriculture and logging.

During the late 19th century, the state of New York initiated a program to purchase lands for the preservation of forests. This led to the establishment of state forests, including Beebe Hill State Forest, in 1926. The primary purpose of creating state forests was to protect and manage land for reforestation, wildlife conservation, and recreational activities.

The state forest was initially known as Columbia Reforestation Area #1. In the early years, the state reforestation crews planted thousands of trees, including white pine, Norway spruce, and red oak, in the area to restore the forested landscape. These efforts helped to improve the overall health and biodiversity of the forest.
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Trails
1. Beebe Hill Fire Tower Trail: This is a 2. 3-mile out-and-back trail, with an elevation gain of approximately 400 feet. The path leads to the historic fire tower which offers panoramic views of Columbia County and beyond.

2. Harvey Mountain State Forest via East-West Connector: A moderately challenging hike that stretches for about 4 miles round trip from Beebe Hill to neighboring Harvey Mountain State Forest through the connector trail.

3. North-South Loop Trail: Approximately three miles long, this loop starts at either parking area on Cemetery Road or Gale Hill Road and takes hikers around most parts of the forest before returning them back where they started.

4. Blue-marked Accessible Trails: These trails are designed specifically for those who may require wheelchair access or prefer less strenuous hikes; these paths offer gentle slopes while still providing beautiful scenery throughout their course in the park.

5. Red-Marked Multi-use Trails: Covering over five miles within Beebe hill state forest, these red-blazed routes can be used by both hikers and horseback riders alike offering diverse experiences across different terrains including hardwood forests & wetlands.

6. Gale-Hill-East-Woods-Road-Circuit: An easy-to-moderate difficulty level circuit covering roughly two mile distance featuring mixed woodland landscapes as well as some steep sections leading up towards Gale Hills summit.

7. Beech-Nut-Trails: Named after native trees found along its route, this one mile long pathway winds gently uphill showcasing variety flora fauna species indigenous to region.

8. Fire-Tower-Via-Austerlitz: Starting off from town's center, this four mile trek heads northwards passing through dense woods until reaching historical lookout point atop beebee hills highest peak.

9. Pine-Lane-To-Oak-Knob: This short yet scenic half-a-mile stroll meanders between towering pine groves eventually culminating into Oak Knob, a popular picnic spot with stunning views of surrounding landscapes.

10. Beebe Hill Multiple Use Trail: This is an extensive network that covers over 30 miles and connects to the neighboring Harvey Mountain State Forest. It's open for hiking, horseback riding, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

11. Beebe Pond Loop: A tranquil trail circling around serene beebee pond, this one mile loop offers hikers opportunity observe variety waterfowl species in their natural habitat.

12. East-West Connector via Gale Hill Road: An alternative route connecting eastern western parts forest, this two-mile long connector passes through mixed hardwood coniferous woodlands offering diverse wildlife viewing opportunities along way.
Birding
Beebe Hill State Forest in New York offers a variety of birding options for enthusiasts. The forest is home to numerous species, making it an ideal spot for both casual and serious bird watchers. Visitors can explore the 30 miles of marked trails that wind through diverse habitats including hardwood forests, wetlands, and open fields.

The Fire Tower Trail is particularly popular among birders as it provides panoramic views from its peak where one might see raptors soaring above or songbirds flitting about in nearby trees. Species commonly spotted include Eastern Bluebird, Scarlet Tanager, Indigo Bunting and various types of warblers during spring migration season.

In addition to these common sightings are more elusive birds such as Barred Owls or Pileated Woodpeckers which require patience but offer rewarding viewing experiences when found. Winter brings opportunities to observe different species like Snow Buntings or Northern Shrikes who make Beebe Hill their seasonal home.

Birdwatchers should bring binoculars along with them on their visit since many birds may be high up in the tree canopy while others could be hidden within dense foliage at ground level.

For those interested in nocturnal avian life there's also potential for spotting owls after sunset by quietly walking along trail paths listening out for distinctive calls echoing throughout the woods.

Overall Birding at Beebe Hill State Forest presents varied possibilities across seasons offering something new each time you visit whether you're just starting your journey into ornithology or have been practicing this hobby over years!

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Area Campgrounds
Woodland Hills Campground
386 Fog Hill Road
Austerlitz, NY
518-392-3557

Directions
1. Start by heading north on I-87 N (also known as the Major Deegan Expressway).
2. Continue onto NY-9A N and follow signs for Albany.
3. Merge onto I-90 E via Exit 12 toward Boston.
4. Take Exit B3 to merge onto Taconic State Parkway North towards Chatham/Albany.
5. Stay on Taconic State Parkway for approximately 30 miles until you reach exit Route 203/Austerlitz/Hillsdale/Craryville.
6. Take a left at the end of ramp and continue straight through two traffic lights staying on Route 203 East into Massachusetts
7. After crossing state line take first right turn which will be Beebe Hill Road.

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New York
7

New York State Parks

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